College Costs in Ames, IA 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 8 colleges in Ames, Iowa. Use our free calculator to estimate your total cost.
Avg Public Tuition
$9,596
per year
Avg Private Tuition
$48,938
per year
Avg Rent Near Campus
$1,078
per month
Colleges & Universities
8
institutions
Ames Overview
Population
66,427
Student Population
19,585 (29.5%)
Cost of Living Index
87 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
51/100
Transit Score
34/100
Unemployment Rate
6.4%
College Cost Calculator for Ames
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$88,316
Total After Financial Aid
$88,316
Annual Cost
$22,079
Annual After Aid
$22,079
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $88,316 |
| Monthly Payment | $1,003 |
| Total Interest | $32,021 |
| Total Loan Cost | $120,337 |
Universities in Ames
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Iowa State University | Public | $9,596 |
| Des Moines Area Community College Ames | Community | $5,064 |
Ames has 8 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in Ames vs. National Average
| Category | Ames | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $9,596 | $10,940 | -$1,344 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $1,078 | $1,050 | +$28 |
| Cost of Living Index | 87 | 100 | -13 |
Ames's cost of living is below the national average. This makes it a more affordable city for students compared to many other college towns.
Student Life in Ames
Walk Score
Somewhat Walkable
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
19,585 students
Ames has a total population of 66,427, with approximately 19,585 college students (29.5% of the population). As a major college town, Ames offers a vibrant campus atmosphere with student-friendly businesses, affordable dining options, and active social scene.
Post-Graduation Outlook in Ames
$45,513
Starting Salary
6.4%
Unemployment Rate
48%
Graduation Rate
~8 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in Ames earn a median starting salary of $45,513, which is $10,513 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $88,316 (including room and board), it would take approximately 8 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $14,241 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
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